Graduation season is upon us, and finding the perfect gift for your graduating friend or family member can be challenging. While gift cards and checks are always appreciated, why not present your monetary gift in a fun, creative, and memorable way? Enter the money lei – a fantastic alternative that’s visually appealing and exciting to receive! Inspired by the traditional Hawaiian lei, money leis are a unique way to gift cash, making them much more exciting than a simple envelope. They are surprisingly easy to make and can be customized to fit your budget and style. This guide will show you exactly How To Make Money Leis that will wow any graduate, without breaking the bank.
Although crafting a money lei does require a bit of time and patience, the process is straightforward, and the impressive final product is well worth the effort. Let’s dive into the steps and discover how to create this memorable graduation gift!
SUPPLIES YOU’LL NEED:
Before you begin, gather these supplies to ensure a smooth crafting experience:
- 30-35 Crisp $1 Bills: The number can be adjusted based on your desired length and budget. Ensure the bills are crisp and new for easier folding.
- Colored Printing Paper: Choose paper in school colors or the graduate’s favorite color to personalize your lei. White paper also works great for a classic look.
- Elmer’s Glue Spots: These are ideal for adhering the bills temporarily without damage, allowing the money to be reused later.
- Hot Glue Gun & Glue Sticks: Hot glue is used for the paper pieces to speed up the process and provide a secure hold.
- Ribbon: Select a ribbon that complements your paper color and is sturdy enough to string the lei together.
STEP-BY-STEP GUIDE TO CRAFTING YOUR MONEY LEI:
Follow these simple steps to assemble your stunning money lei:
-
Prepare Your Dollar Bills: Begin by gathering your crisp dollar bills. You will need approximately 30-35 bills for a standard lei.
Gathering dollar bills to make a money lei -
Create Accordion Folds: Transform each dollar bill into an accordion fold. Start by folding the bill back and forth in a zig-zag pattern, as shown in the image. Aim for even folds for a neat appearance. A helpful tip is to start folding roughly halfway between the number 1 and President Washington’s portrait on the top left corner of the bill for consistent folds. Once folded, crease the bill in half to create a central indent.
Folding dollar bills in accordion style for money lei -
Secure with Glue Spots: Open the folded bill and apply two glue spots inside, near the center crease but not directly on it (as this is where the ribbon will go). Press the sides of the bill together to secure the accordion fold with the glue spots. Repeat this process for all the dollar bills. The glue spots are perfect because they provide a strong hold but are easily removable without damaging the money.
-
Prepare Paper Accordion Folds: To make your money lei fuller and more cost-effective, cut out paper pieces the same size as dollar bills from your chosen colored paper. You’ll need about 30-35 paper pieces. Fold these paper pieces into accordions, just like you did with the dollar bills. However, instead of using glue spots, use hot glue to secure the paper folds. Hot glue is faster for the paper and provides a strong hold. Remember to avoid gluing too close to the center indent to leave space for the ribbon.
Creating paper accordion folds for money lei to save money -
String the Lei Together: Now it’s time to assemble your money lei. Cut a length of ribbon appropriate for a lei (consider the desired length to hang comfortably around the neck). Begin stringing the accordion-folded dollar bills and paper pieces onto the ribbon, alternating between a dollar bill and a paper piece. Thread the ribbon through the center indent you created in each fold.
Stringing dollar bills and paper folds onto ribbon for money lei -
Finishing Touches: Continue stringing until you’ve used all your folded bills and paper pieces, or until the lei reaches your desired length. Once you’re satisfied, tie off the ends of the ribbon securely.
Finished money lei – practical and fun graduation gift
CONGRATULATIONS! YOUR MONEY LEI IS COMPLETE!
You’ve now created a unique and practical graduation gift that is sure to impress! Money leis are not only a fun way to give money but also serve as a memorable keepsake for the graduate. They’re perfect for graduation parties, ceremonies, or as a special surprise.
Bonus Tip: Get creative and personalize your lei further! You can incorporate small candies, lightweight trinkets, or even personalized messages between the folds for an extra special touch. For example, gold-colored candies like Butter Rum Lifesavers can add a festive element and reduce the number of bills needed.
For more fantastic graduation gift ideas and party inspiration, be sure to explore these related resources:
- Mini Cupcake Graduation Caps – Sweet and adorable graduation-themed treats.
- Graduation Cap Toppers and Flags – Creative decorations to celebrate the graduate.
- Money Cupcake Toppers – Another fun way to gift money at a graduation party.
Enjoy crafting your money lei and celebrating your graduate in style!
